DAMIEN MODESTE has rejoined Thames Valley Tigers and will make his first appearance back at Bracknell Sports Centre in a British Basketball League clash against Plymouth Raiders tonight (8pm tip-off).

The 6ft 4in English forward spent all last season with Tigers, earning a popular reputation among fans who appreciated the effort he put in over the 10 minutes or so court time that he usually received.

Modeste averaged 3.5 points and almost two rebounds per game, coming off the bench.

And coach Paul James will be hoping his arrival will strengthen Tigers' chances of qualifying for the BBL Championship play-offs.

James said: "I was looking for a player who can make things happen and last season Damien gave the team much-needed energy when he came into the game.

"It is important to have different types of players in your squad and I believe that Damien can help us as we push for a higher finish in the BBL.

"From our current position I believe we can finish in sixth place and if results go our way we might be able to go higher."

Since leaving Tigers, Modeste had a short spell with Division 1 Teeside Mohawks, but he has relocated back in the south of England.

At the halfway stage of the season, Tigers are six points ahead of Plymouth, who are just outside the qualifying places in ninth.

Victory tonight would make Tigers' qualification for the play-offs likely. And James' side would boast an unassailable 3-0 lead in the head-to-head series with Raiders.

The Devon club would then need 10 points more than Tigers over the second half of the season, to overhaul them.